The Harry Potter series follows the magical adventures of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While much of the focus is on the students, the Hogwarts faculty are just as important to the story and world.
Each professor brings a unique set of skills and knowledge to their students and their unique personalities. Below is a guide to the Hogwarts faculty members featured in the Harry Potter series.
What are the Names of the Professors in Harry Potter?
The Hogwarts faculty consists of a number of professors, each of which specializes in a particular magical field. These professors include:
- Albus Dumbledore – Headmaster and professor of Transfiguration
- Severus Snape – Professor of Potions
- Minerva McGonagall – Professor of Transfiguration
- Filius Flitwick – Professor of Charms
- Rolanda Hooch – Professor of Flying
- Pomona Sprout – Professor of Herbology
- Septima Vector – Professor of Arithmancy
- Remus Lupin – Defence Against the Dark Arts professor (temporary)
- Firenze – Divination professor (temporary)
- Quirinus Quirrell – Defence Against the Dark Arts professor (temporary)
- Sybill Trelawney – Divination professor
- Cuthbert Binns – History of Magic professor
- Gilderoy Lockhart – Defence Against the Dark Arts professor (temporary)
- Rubeus Hagrid – Care of Magical Creatures professor
Who are the Professors in Harry Potter?
Many Professors played a significant role in Harry Potter’s education and the development of his magical abilities. They were also crucial to the story, providing guidance, support, and often a sense of security for the students.
Albus Dumbledore
As headmaster of Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore was responsible for the overall management and guidance of the school. He was a wise and powerful wizard who looked out for Harry and all his students.
Severus Snape
Snape is the professor of Potions at Hogwarts and is one of the most enigmatic characters in the series. He has a love-hate relationship with Harry but ultimately proves to be one of his greatest allies.
Minerva McGonagall
Professor McGonagall was the professor of Transfiguration at Hogwarts and a dedicated teacher who cared for all her students. She is also a close friend and ally of Dumbledore, often helping him protect the school from dark forces. She supported the students until the Deathly Hallows and was also a patron of the Gryffindor Quidditch team.
Rubeus Hagrid
Hagrid was the Care of Magical Creatures professor and one of Ron, Harry, and Hermione‘s closest friends. He was also a trusted ally of Dumbledore, always ready to help when called upon. He is famous for his size and strength, as well as his kind heart.
Who Played the Professors in Harry Potter?
The Harry Potter series also has a film adaptation, with several well-known actors portraying the professors. Below is a list of who played the professors in the movie:
Albus Dumbledore – Richard Harris & Michael Gambon
In the first two movies, Albus Dumbledore was played by Richard Harris, and in the later movies, he was portrayed by Michael Gambon. The change in actor was due to Harris passing away in 2002. He was known for his wise and calming performance. Nonetheless, Gambon was able to fill the role and did an excellent job of capturing Dumbledore’s magical charm.
Severus Snape – Alan Rickman
Alan Rickman’s portrayal of Severus Snape is one of the most iconic performances in the Harry Potter series. He was able to perfectly capture Snape’s mysterious and often menacing nature while still showing his loyal and protective side. According to sources, J.K. Rowling informed Rickman of the meaning of always in Harry Potter way before the audience, making his performance all the more powerful. This was a fitting tribute to the actor, who passed away in 2016.
Minerva McGonagall – Maggie Smith
Maggie Smith played Professor McGonagall in the movie and was praised for her ability to capture McGonagall’s stern but kind-hearted attitude. Smith was able to bring the professor to life in an unforgettable performance. The actress has been in the acting business for more than 50 years and has won many awards, including two Academy Awards.
Rubeus Hagride – Robbie Coltran
Robbie Coltrane was perfectly cast to portray the beloved half-giant, Rubeus Hagrid. He was able to capture the character’s kind and gentle nature, as well as his loyalty to Harry. He is a fan favorite and an essential part of the Harry Potter cast. Without Coltrane, the character of Hagrid would not be as memorable.
Overall, the professors in Harry Potter are a cornerstone of the magical world J.K. Rowling has crafted. From wise and powerful Dumbledore to menacing Snape and gentle Hagrid, each professor has their own unique personality that contributes to the story in a special way. With this guide, you can now get to know more about the Hogwarts faculty members featured in the Harry Potter series.
